Manchester United earmark Dortmund star as ideal Carrick replacement

Michael Carrick is reaching the latter stages of his Manchester United career, and Louis van Gaal is eyeing a replacement for the midfielder – and has noted Borussia Dortmund’s Ilkay Gundogan as the ideal player to step into his boots.

The Daily Express report that Louis van Gaal is preparing to spend another £150m this summer to bolster each area of the Red Devils team.

A key concern is who the club can secure as a long term replacement to Carrick, who is contracted to the club until the end of the 2015-16 campaign.

The England international remains a crucial player in the United midfield – as was highlighted by his absence in the defeat to Chelsea last Saturday evening – and know that his replacement must be of similar quality.

According to the report, the Dutchman is keen on capitalising on Jurgen Klopp’s imminent departure from Borussia Dortmund in the summer, and is eyeing a deal for midfielder Ilkay Gundogan.

Despite fitness concerns over the past few seasons, the German has been a regular at the Westfalenstadion since returning to fitness in October.

BVB are reportedly prepared to cash in on the 24-year-old with his contract set to expire next season.